If correlating your band’s music with a comic series sounds overly complicated that’s likely because it is, but Quinn McGraw wouldn’t have it any other way.
The Kelowna resident recently released Gemini After Onyx, which marks his first entry into the comic book industry.
“It’s a story about forgiveness, in a world where our protagonist is faced with all these things that are unforgivable,” explains McGraw.
"As a writer, I'm trying to take a refreshing angle on conventional sci-fi where it's often a situation with everyone trying to take each other out and make off with what they can for themselves."
Gemini After Onyx accompanies the first record by Living Machines, the band McGraw plays bass in and serves as the driving creative force.
The plan is for the comic series to play out alongside each album released by the band, creating an immersive experience for passionate fans.
“For most bands, your selling point is basically ‘here’s our music’ and beyond that, there’s honestly not much that separates you from the next prog-rock band with heavy riffs,” laughs McGraw.
“So we’re curating a more immersive experience for our listeners, being not just a band but a multiplatform story.”
The process has been a journey for the 27-year-old musician turned comic book writer.
Altogether, from conception to print, Gemini After Onyx took over three years to create working alongside an illustrator and editor from the United Kingdom.
But with the initial run of 200 copies almost sold out, McGraw strongly believes the creative process has been well worth it.
“It’s so cool to have fans message you after reading the book about how stoked they were to finally read and see the moment they’ve been listening to from the album.”
With the book now officially released, McGraw will now put his business cap on as Living Machines prepare to launch their new album set to be released this February.
The exciting part for fans is that means another comic will soon be coming hot off the presses as well.
For those interested in securing a copy of Gemini After Onyx click here and to learn more about Living Machines, click here.
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